Refugee Resettlement Challenges And How To Help Locally

by Matt Kuhns

Kerissa MacKay of USCRI.

The life of a refugee involves tremendous difficulties, which misunderstandings and ignorance only make worse. Lakewood resident Kerissa MacKay helps address these challenges, as a local program coordinator for the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI). On May 25, MacKay will speak about her work, refugees’ lives, and ways that all of us can help.

MacKay will explore resettlement in the U.S. during a presentation to the Lakewood Democratic Club. She will relate some of the struggles and personal experiences of refugees, before and after resettlement. Her presentation will provide insight into

how one becomes a refugee

life as a U.S. resettled refugee

myths and facts

how you can help

MacKay will also speak about USCRI, where among other roles she assists newly resettled refugees in becoming self-sufficient. USCRI is a secular, non-profit resettlement agency based in Washington D.C., which serves refugees, immigrants, unaccompanied migrating children, survivors of human trafficking and victims of torture.

The Lakewood Democratic Club will host MacKay at its meeting on Thursday, May 25, at the Woman’s Club Pavilion in Lakewood Park. Doors open at 7, and the evening’s program begins at 7:30. Meetings are free to attend. New members are also welcome to join; dues are once per year and may be paid at the meeting.